Monthly Archives: November 2014

I had no idea just how cold the weather in New York had become until a few days ago when I noticed my heat had automatically turned on in my home. Yes, it may only be October, but winter coats have begun their annual takeover. And just yesterday as I peered through a coffee shop window while warming myself up with a nice, hot espresso, I began to shiver as I witnessed a runner casually walk by in his tank top and shorts.

I am here to tell you that as the temperature drops, you don’t have to freeze outside to get a good run in or sign your soul over to your local gym. Here are a few cold weather accessories to keep you fashionably fit all winter long.

Headband. If you’ve never really worn headbands when working out I suggest you give it a try. Not only can it help to keep the hair out of your face, but also if you go with a larger option you can keep your ears warm and your headphones secure.

Fingerless gloves. They have may have been in style for a few years now but they are more than just a trend. Keep your hands warm, yet still free enough to skip songs with a pair of fingerless gloves. Your best bet is a pair that has the mitten option to button back so you have the ability to cover your entire hand when the weather is at it’s worst.

Vest. A good vest can last you years and seems to have become a winter wardrobe staple and we won’t complain. It can be hard to run or stretch in a full coat. Stay free and flexible by choosing a vest instead. You can opt for a long sleeve thermal to wear underneath to keep you feeling lighter but still warm enough to go the extra mile.

If you don’t already have one or all of these items don’t stress, here are a few other tips. Try warming up indoors. This way you will already be warm by the time you get going outside. Wear multiple thin layers. You will stay much warmer than you think and still have the ability to take off a layer if necessary. Or, carry a packet of hand warmers in your jacket pocket for those extra cold days. Either way, just know that you can continue your outdoor workout all winter long!

The real trouble began when I arrived at Soul Cycle and met Amanda. “How do I get your body?” I asked. To which she responded with a smirk, “let me show you”. From that moment on she made sure I gave it my all, with beads of sweat flooding down my entire body I matched her every soul movement, pedal by pedal, energized by the intensity of the music. It was a truly soulful experience.

As a fashionista and health educator, fitness is a big part of my life. But I know doing the same routine everyday can get old quickly so I am always on the hunt for new workouts to keep my interest by constantly challenging me. Lately I have been hearing a lot about the coolest exercising trend SoulCycle. I was intrigued by the name alone and I knew I needed to find out more.

Directly from their website, SoulCycle is described as this: “With inspirational instructors, candlelight epic spaces, and rocking music, riders can let loose, clear their heads and empower themselves with strength that lasts beyond the studio walls.” Go ahead; try to tell me you aren’t the least bit curious.

So what exactly is SoulCycle and how does it work? Well, it is a cycling class that lasts approximately 45 minutes and utilizes choreography and hand weights for a full body, fat burning workout. If you can survive that long with ease, try becoming a soul survivor with their 60-minute class. But that’s not all. They also offer a class called Soul Bands where you will find resistance bands hanging from the ceiling. Still feeling unsure? You might be the only one.

Their workout attire clothing line is also worth checking. Vibrant and energetic colors like the classes itself will inspire you to pedal faster in chic style.

SoulCycle has become the newest celebrity go to workout and some even offer giveaways where you can join in on one of their classes. But even if you don’t “win” a chance to cycle with a celeb, you may just find yourself next to one (or ten) in your next class. Could it be anymore trendy?

So now you definitely want to check it out but you’re wondering how much it is going to cost you? It is actually very affordable. One class will run you $34 or grab five for $165. Or join the community with the newbies for a free class. Signups are Mondays at noon online so don’t miss your opportunity to check out the newest fitness trend for free.

And as they say on their site, “SoulCycle doesn’t just change bodies, it changes lives.” Are you in?

P.S. As always I would love to hear from you what was your experience with Soul Cycle? Share your comments, tips and suggestions with the rest of us.

When I made the decision to pursue an education in the culinary arts, I knew I wanted to join a program that emphasized a raw, organic approach. I researched different options and wasn’t sure if I would find the right fit amongst the numerous unoriginal programs that existed. I was beginning to lose hope until one morning when I stumbled upon a comprehensive curriculum that embraced the true “art” of raw cooking. I was intrigued as I learned it attracted inspiring chefs from all across the globe and was founded in response to the increased demand for raw cooking in this industry. Like love at first sight, I knew I had found my perfect fit. So I took a leap of faith and flew to Santa Monica, California where I began learning from some of the very best at Matthew Kenney Culinary.

The Matthew Kenney mission is to advance cutting edge living cuisine and caters to those desiring “professional-style” techniques. Their programs “emphasize the use of whole, organic, unprocessed, plant-based foods to achieve healthy, aesthetically refined and flavorful cuisine.” But it was more than just frequent flyer miles and an attractive website that led me all the way to the west coast. What I loved most about Matthew Kenney Culinary was the intimate atmosphere in which you learn.

Upon arrival to Matthew Kenney Culinary I found myself admiring and pulling inspiration from their unique ambiance. I was encouraged to embrace my creativity and learn the true “art” of cooking and the preparation of raw, vegan cuisine. Classes were personalized and customized to my needs and I can honestly say I truly gained a hands-on experience. I couldn’t help but love every minute of my time in Santa Monica, learning much more than I had imagined. And to my surprise, I had the chance to learn from Matthew Kenney himself.

Not only did Matthew Kenney’s delicious cooking resemble that of a Picasso painting (yes, Picasso) but his superior approach to teaching was complimented by his encouraging, amiable demeanor. I am so gracious for his motivating and nurturing spirit and I am more than happy with my decision to fly across the country to learn from the best in raw cooking. With such a positive atmosphere, I couldn’t help but take my craft to the next level and I hope you all have the chance to taste my delicious raw chocolate and see for yourself just what I learned!

P.S. As always I would like to hear from you how do you boost your energy up? Share your commends, tips and suggestions with the rest of us.